The main theme of the book is the white authorís experience of
white racism, when he temporarily transforms himself into a
Negro. The author describes this theme of white racism as the
story of men who destroy the souls and bodies of other men and
in the process destroy themselves. In other words, racism cruelly
and completely corrupts the heart, body and intelligence not only
of the Negroes, the oppressed, but it dehumanizes and brutalizes
even the whites, their oppressors.

Minor Themes

Theme of Negro Strength

A minor theme of the book is the bittersweet simplicity and innocence
of the Negroes that is truly inspiring. In spite of their alienation and
marginalisation, because of the policy of racial segregation and discrimination,
they do not become mean or demeaning, even to their white oppressor. While
to their Negro brethren, they show deep warmth and courtesy, even if total
strangers.

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Theme of White Sensitivity

Another minor theme of the book is that of white sensitivity and
sensibility even amidst all the white savagery. There are many
whites, who do not aid or abet the racists, but show sympathy
and solidarity with the Negroes, even at the risk of their lives and
livelihood. Amidst all the barbarism, they are a great source of
faith, hope and courage. P. D. East is one such brilliant example.

MOOD

The mood of the book is very startling and shocking. It is not an
arid account filled with generalizations and statistics on the
Negro problem, or an abstract scientific research study with
careful compilation of data for analysis. Instead it is a stinging
and scathing indictment of white society. It is grim and
vehement, blunt and bitter on the theme of white racism. But it is
also very inspiring and eloquent. It is an eye-opener on not only
how the Negroes suffer and sacrifice silently and stoically, but it
also gives insights into their support and solidarity towards one
another, even to strangers. It is lively, yet poignant, tragic, but
even comic at times. The climax is stark and dark, hateful and
hopeless. But the final outcome is hopeful.